I wanted to update about my recent experience with the Redondo 98s. I switched from the C10 Pro on a whim and found great control albeit with a drop in power. I use the Pro Red Code 16 strings and decided to test 17 gauge and also have some Tourna Big Red on order to see if a bit more pop might be better - while still maintaining tension for a month which is what I like about Pro Red Code.
After 3 matches over 2 weeks I started to get a sore elbow which I know shouldn't happen with the low flex Redondo. I never had problems with the C10 Pro even with polys. I believe this time it was because the grips on my Redondos are 4 1/4 where i should use 4 3/8. I could have added another overgrip but that would just add more weight - they were already 354 grams with the stock leather grip, tourna overgrip and dampener.
I switched the leather grip for a TF ATP Tour synthetic grip (2.1mm) and my usual overgrip and I was very surprised at the difference. It was 8 grams lighter (344grm) and played very differently. It felt like a shorter racket and was very mobile. No elbow pain although it's still a bit tender from the earlier set up.
I guess I have reduced the headlight balance but not the swingweight. Now it really plays a lot like the prestiges I used to use - the Pro classic and the IG version. When I had the leather grip on it felt weightier and a bit more unforgiving on off-center hits. I had been thinking of adding lead to the hoop because it was so head light and low powered. It had that very old school feel - the one you get from 100% graphite with a very firm leather leverage point. It was very much driven from the handle. Now, with the synthetic grip it swings more uniformly with a bit less of that unique, old school racket feel. I want to see what happens with a fresh set of PRC 16 at 51 or 52 lbs. I may experiment with tail weighting to see if that increases racquet head speed for spin.
I didn't play well today so it is hard to give a complete review. I had 2 sticks out and was able to compare the 16 and 17 gauges of the PRC. Even though the 16 gauge had been in for 5 weeks, had 6 hours of play already and had been strung 2 pounds lighter I much preferred it. The 17 gauge was more springy and I got some floaters which made me lose some confidence on approach shots. It felt nicer but I'll take the control of the 16 gauge anyday.
Another day another (tennis) lesson.
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